Over the past 30 years, Scotland’s Private Rented Sector (SPRS) has evolved into a market dominated by small-scale, part-time landlords, with institutional investment failing to take hold. This report analyses key landlord surveys since 1992, highlighting the sector’s shift towards a “cottage-like” structure and its growing vulnerability due to policy changes and sector shrinkage. In the context of a housing emergency and limited alternative rental options, the findings emphasise the need for a better understanding of small-scale landlords to prevent further decline in rental housing availability.

To address the gaps in data and ensure informed policymaking, the report recommends that the Scottish Government introduce a periodic national landlord survey starting in 2025. This would provide critical insights into landlord motivations, sector trends, and the effectiveness of policy interventions. Additionally, establishing a landlord panel would enhance evidence-based decision-making, ensuring policies support the stability and growth of Scotland’s private rental market.